Okay, so start of the month we Pixel users wait anxiously for our monthly update. What will the Google Gods bestow upon us this month. Well... we are sitting here at 10 days in and nothing... usually it's here by now.
Well, there's a reason... this is kinda like a big update for us. It's got the June Pixel update, which has some stuff for us; but it's also the annual big OS update as we go to Android 16.
Now, I put the 9a into the beta and have been enjoying the subtle tweaks to it, but have been holding off on talking about it until it's all official.
Well, today we should start seeing it.
So here's what we got in store for us:
June Pixel Drop:
- Pixel VIPs: This feature lets you stay better connected to family and friends. Starting next week Pixel users can add their favourite people to the new Pixel VIPs widget including contact details and preferences, viewing recent communications, and allowing VIPs to bypass Do Not Disturb.
- Create custom stickers in Gboard: Powered by Pixel Studio, now you can create custom stickers using generative AI within Gboard by typing a prompt or using photos from your camera roll.
- Advance your photography skills: Need some inspiration? Pixel users can now access a new education hub in the Camera app, featuring visual inspiration and how-to instructions for each mode, helping you maximize your photography potential with your Pixel.
- Expressive Captions: This feature aims to understand the intensity, nuance and emotion conveyed through speech, and it’s now available in Canada, in English.
Android 16 (available on Pixel first):
- Live updates in your notifications: We’ll show a progress bar with real-time updates from compatible ride-share and delivery apps. And, notifications from the same apps will be force-grouped to reduce clutter and overwhelming pings.
- Support for hearing aids LE audio: You can switch from your LE audio hearing devices to your phone’s mic for clearer calls in noisy places. We’re also releasing native control for hearing devices for a more consistent experience and easier access.
- Advanced Protection: Google’s strongest mobile device protection enables all of Android’s highest security features that protect you from online attacks, harmful apps, unsafe websites, scam calls and more in just a tap.
- Productivity enhancements for tablets: Coming later this year, desktop mode is a new way to interact with apps and content on large screen devices. Also, custom keyboard shortcuts will help you create your own combination of hotkeys, while taskbar overflow provides simple ways to find your apps when your task bar is full.
Android ecosystem updates:
- RCS group chat features: In RCS-enabled group chats in Google Messages, you can set custom icons, and mute notifications on specific chats for a duration of your choosing.
- Google Photos image editor: When you circle, brush, or tap on what you want to edit, you’ll get AI-powered suggestions with a list of recommended tools to choose from.
- Favorites in Google Home: When you sign up for Public Preview, you can pin Google Home Favorites to the devices you use most and tailor the way you manage your home with device-specific shortcuts.
- Safety Check timer extension: Easily extend the Safety Check check-in time with a tap of your phone or smartwatch – instead of creating a new one.
- Emoji Kitchen: New sticker combinations allow you to remix your favorite emoji and share them with your friends as stickers via Gboard.
- Express Transit on Wear OS: With Google Wallet always ready to pay for transit fares on your Wear OS watch, you no longer need to open the app to make a payment.
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